New Drug For Inflammatory Conditions

May 23, 2016

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a drug that is similar (called a biosimilar) to infliximab (Remicade). It is called Inflectra. This medication can be used to help manage or treat many conditions including Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis when combined with Methotrexate, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and chronic plaque psoriasis. It’s reported most common side effects include sore throat, sinus infection, stomach pain and headache.

This is reported to be the first biosimilar medication by the FDA for inflammatory conditions. A biosimilar is a biologic medication that has similar safety and efficacy compared to a brand name product. Biologic medications are derived from sources such as humans, animals, or microorganisms and require biotechnology to manufacture them. The FDA indicates that it does not have information at this time regarding the interchanging of biosimilar medications with brand name medications.